Tapestry Upholstery Material for Sale

Shop our range of tapestry upholstery material for sale at MHC World. Buy online and receive free delivery over R3500 & within a 30km radius from our store.

Apart from our tapestry upholstery material for sale, we also offer upholstery material, ground sheeting and velvets & Suedes for sale.

Tapestry Upholstery Material, available at MHC World, offers a timeless and richly textured option for decorating furniture. Known for its intricate woven patterns and artistic appeal, tapestry is a popular choice for those looking to add character, colour and depth to sofas, chairs, cushions and wall panels.

It has historical roots stretching back centuries, and yet it continues to remain relevant in today’s interiors, whether traditional, vintage, or eclectic. Tapestry upholstery material is strong, decorative, and highly durable, making it suitable for both statement pieces and everyday use.

At MHC World, customers can buy a wide variety of tapestry upholstery materials suited to different design schemes and functions. Whether you are restoring a period armchair or creating a bespoke bench for your hallway, the store’s selection includes both luxury and affordable options. When considering purchase decisions, shoppers will find that the price of tapestry fabric is well justified by its quality, longevity and aesthetic richness.

What Is Tapestry Upholstery Material

Tapestry upholstery material is a heavy, woven fabric used to cover furniture and decorative pieces. It is distinguished by its complex patterns, often inspired by florals, medieval themes, wildlife, or historical motifs. Unlike printed fabrics where the design is added to the surface, tapestry designs are woven into the fabric itself, resulting in a more dimensional and durable finish.

This material is made using a weft-faced weaving technique, where coloured threads are woven across the warp threads to create detailed pictures or patterns. The fabric is thick, structured and designed to endure high-traffic use, making it suitable for chairs, ottomans, and decorative cushions. Some people also use tapestry fabric to make tote bags or as panels in soft furnishings.

Tapestry upholstery material is appreciated for its visual impact and durability. At MHC World, it is available in various styles, sizes and colours, allowing customers to buy a design that matches their furniture and interior theme.

How Are Tapestry Upholstery Material Manufactured

Tapestry upholstery material is manufactured through a traditional weaving process that uses a jacquard loom. The production begins with the selection of strong yarns - typically cotton, polyester, or a blend - which are dyed in the required shades. These yarns form the weft and warp, which are then woven together using a method that allows the weft threads to form visible patterns on the surface of the fabric.

The jacquard loom operates using a punch-card or computer-controlled system to lift specific warp threads at precise moments. This control allows for the intricate patterns that tapestry is known for. Each colour in the design is achieved by weaving a separate thread, rather than printing or dyeing after weaving.

The result is a thick, patterned fabric with clear motifs and a textured finish. Because of the dense weave and complexity of design, tapestry fabric is heavier and more structured than ordinary upholstery fabric. The weaving process also contributes to its durability, making it suitable for repeated use and stress.

The Development of Tapestry Upholstery Material Through the Years

Early examples of tapestry were found in Egyptian tombs and Greco-Roman homes, where textiles were used to insulate walls and illustrate scenes of daily life. In mediaeval Europe, tapestry production reached its peak with wall hangings created to depict battles, royal hunts, and biblical scenes. These were prized possessions among the nobility.

During the Renaissance, tapestry became more refined, with intricate floral and architectural themes dominating the designs. The Gobelins Manufactory in France and the Flemish weaving centres of Brussels and Bruges became renowned for their craftsmanship, producing monumental works for palaces and cathedrals.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Arts and Crafts Movement revived interest in traditional craftsmanship, leading to a renewed demand for woven furnishings. Tapestry fabric began to be used not only for walls but for upholstery as well, making its way into homes as practical yet decorative material.

Today, tapestry upholstery material has adapted to suit contemporary needs. Newer fibres and digital jacquard looms allow for greater design flexibility while maintaining the richness of traditional weaves.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Tapestry Upholstery Material

Benefits	Disadvantages
Exceptionally durable and resistant to wear	Heavier and more difficult to handle than other fabrics
Intricate woven designs that do not fade	Can be more expensive than printed alternatives
Adds visual richness and texture to furniture	Requires more careful cleaning methods
Suitable for antique, classic or vintage-style pieces	Patterns may not suit minimalist or ultra-modern interiors
Strong enough for high-use areas	Limited breathability compared to lightweight fabrics

Who Would Gain From Buying Tapestry Upholstery Material and Why

Tapestry upholstery material is particularly beneficial for individuals who value craftsmanship, durability and visual interest in their interiors. Homeowners restoring antique or vintage furniture will find that tapestry provides the appropriate historic character and structure for their project. It pairs beautifully with carved wooden frames, curved legs and ornamental features.

Interior decorators and designers aiming to create traditional or eclectic spaces will also benefit from tapestry’s intricate motifs and substantial feel. It works well in libraries, sitting rooms, reading nooks and boutique hotels where atmosphere and texture are key.

Pet owners or families looking for a tough, long-lasting upholstery material may also be surprised at how well tapestry performs. Its dense weave can resist scratches and fraying, while maintaining its decorative charm.

Different Types and Styles of Tapestry Upholstery Material and Their Features

Tapestry upholstery fabric comes in various styles, each with distinct themes and characteristics. These include:

Traditional Floral Tapestry: Featuring roses, tulips, and intricate garden scenes, this style adds romance and a classical touch to interiors.
Medieval or Heraldic Tapestry: Depicting knights, shields and gothic architecture, it suits period décor or themed spaces.
Animal Motif Tapestry: Designs with birds, deer, and cats are popular for country homes and cottages, offering a whimsical yet refined look.
Modern Abstract Tapestry: Using geometric or artistic patterns in contemporary colour palettes, this type bridges traditional weaving with modern interiors.
Scenic or Pictorial Tapestry: These often resemble paintings, showing landscapes or historical events, and are used on both walls and furniture for dramatic effect.

What Is the Lifespan of Tapestry Upholstery Material and How Should You Clean It to Extend It

With proper care, it can maintain its structure and appearance for 15 to 25 years or longer. Its woven nature ensures that colours remain vibrant and threads stay in place even after years of use.

To extend the lifespan of tapestry fabric, it is important to vacuum it regularly to remove dust and debris from the weave. Avoid placing tapestry-covered furniture in direct sunlight, as this can cause fading over time. For spot cleaning, use a mild upholstery cleaner and dab gently with a clean, damp cloth.

Professional cleaning is recommended every few years, especially for large pieces.

How to Choose Tapestry Upholstery Material

Begin by considering the overall design scheme of your space. Tapestry works best with traditional, classic or rustic interiors. Choose floral or heraldic patterns for antique pieces, or animal motifs for cottage-style rooms.

Check the durability rating of the fabric, especially for items that will be used daily.

Best Brands of Tapestry Upholstery Material Available on MHC World

At MHC World you can purchase all reputable brands of Tapestry Upholstery Material, including Barcelona, at a reasonable price.

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